Shortage of trained staff halts treatment
Sambalpur: Radiation therapy services at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, have remained suspended for the past six months due to the absence of qualified radiotherapy technicians, affecting cancer patients from western Odisha.
Vacant posts trigger disruption
The disruption began in August last year after both sanctioned posts of radiotherapy technician at the institute fell vacant—one due to retirement and the other following resignation. As radiation equipment can only be operated by trained and certified personnel, the Radiotherapy department has been unable to resume services.
Major referral centre impacted
According to sources, VIMSAR is the primary referral centre for cancer patients from several districts of western Odisha. Official data shows that new cancer cases at the institute have risen from about 1,200 in 2017 to nearly 2,000 annually by 2025.
High patient load before suspension
In addition to new cases, nearly 4,000 to 5,000 patients visit the hospital every year for follow-up care. Before services were halted, an average of 30 to 40 patients underwent radiation therapy daily at VIMSAR.
Patients forced to seek private care
With government-run radiation services unavailable, patients are increasingly compelled to seek treatment at private hospitals, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses. Most patients, doctors said, are unable to afford private treatment on their own.
Repeated requests to Health Department
Dr Kabita Majhi of the Radiotherapy department said several representations have been sent to the Health Department over the past six months seeking appointment of radiotherapy technicians, but no response has been received so far.
Doctors warn of treatment delays
Medical professionals have expressed serious concern over the prolonged interruption, warning that delays in time-sensitive cancer treatment can adversely affect patient outcomes. They also cited the limited availability of trained radiotherapy technicians in Odisha as a systemic problem.
Call for training facilities at VIMSAR
At present, the radiotherapy technician course is offered only at Acharya Harihar Postgraduate Institute of Cancer in Cuttack with Atomic Energy Regulatory Board approval. Experts have urged the introduction of such courses at VIMSAR to ensure continuity of services and prevent future disruptions.
